The French undead inspire another very much alive Mogwai album.
A gorgeous half-portrait, when it peaks, of enjoyable, gritty complexity.
A variously intimate, bold and engaging tribute compilation.
A second LP of minimal flab that builds on the positives of its predecessor.
A partial victory, and one buoyed by some outstanding surprise turns.
Several sounds turned into a single gorgeous one, Fade is YLT’s most settled LP for years.
A beautiful solo debut, unequivocally demanding of your attention.
A worthy, satisfying indulgence that’s been a long time coming.
Offers more than a whistle-stop tour of the hits.
Brighton songwriter’s debut LP is an expert exercise in control and restraint.
These 17 discs comprise essential foundations for any record collection.
This idiosyncratic, experimental debut is a richly rewarding listen.
Flashes of invention aside, album four is more of the same from the Irish singer.
The Canadians’ fifth set tweaks their established formula with splendid results.
An interesting project, certainly, but the Gibbs’ requiem lacks any gravitas.
A classy and effortless-sounding set from the streamlined Oxford four-piece.
Pianist Lim tackles these pieces with invention as much as she does with respect.
One of Jurado’s strongest albums in an encouraging line of strong albums.
One of Britain’s most intriguing hopes still has some serious thinking to do.
An indispensable set for anyone looking to get closer to Mahler.
Defiantly quiet, minimal music that whispers to tell its enveloping stories.
Readings focused entirely on the composer, not on debating how things ‘should’ sound.
Uniquely intimate and very satisfying fare from the ex-Hefner man.
The Clan sounds lean, experienced and relaxed on a recommended new collection.
Elements combine effectively to highlight what a baffling composer Beethoven could be.
Near-perfect performances which deliver a tautly satisfying experience.
Canadian sextet ditches punk for a high-concept rock opera, with stunning results.
Married duo’s debut has its mesmerising moments, but overall is too reticent.
Bootsy sets about waking up a new generation to funk’s heritage.
Barenboim is a master, and should be celebrated as such.
A marvellous little record where improvisation rubs shoulders with immediacy.
The Minnesotan trio progress through shades of light on a fine ninth LP.
The inspirational conductor holds onto his fine reputation.
Oregon rock alchemists create soundworlds that one can be effortlessly immersed in.
An entertaining listen, as changeable and dynamic as any of the composer's best work.
Spencer’s sweet, barbed voice tells of secret liaisons and drunken encounters.
Intelligent readings that show how varied the composer was in his dark, impulsive heart.
Muti and company tackle the work confidently, and with vim to spare.
A surprisingly varied collection of duets with acts including Outkast and Foo Fighters.
An overblown, almost absurdly confident and superbly affecting record.
Technical challenges are shaken off like rainwater, everything a joyous blur.
By allowing his craft to grow slowly, results here are stronger than ever.
He becomes a romanticist Einaudi, a crafter of tense milieu.
An expertly constructed debut LP from the José González-fronted trio.
A completist’s dream and a fitting way to mark two decades in the industry.
This is, for want a better of a better expression, a right old laugh of a record.
Thoroughly entertaining throughout, and the return to form Elton John required.
A perfect mix of daring, intrigue and impeccable musicianship.
This is intimacy on a purely aural level, the ultimate headphones album.
A record best judged with preconceptions cast aside and broad strokes accepted.
